I served in the US Army and Arizona Army National Guard from 1978-2006, but I had some breaks in my service. From 1978-1981 I served in the 3rd AD in Germany with the 503rd MP Company. During my time in Germany I was both combat MP and I also did law enforcement. Some of the most exciting times were working with the German Police and German anti-terror team (GSG9). We also trained with the German army and got to shoot all their weapons including 90mm recoilless HAW (heavy anti-tank weapon). It was great to experience the culture in Germany and see the castles and sites in Europe. In the 1980’s, I went to Panama. It was the pre-invasion stage. We ran air missions in a helicopter, UH1H- Huey, up and down the Panama canal and over Taboga Island. In panama, it was very hot and humid. One of the most difficult things that I saw when I was there was the very poverty stricken areas and children and adults that had little to no food, clothes, or shelter. It made me appreciate being an American even more. My last tour, 2004-2006, was in Iraq. My unit did a lot of different combat missions including Recon/Surveillance, patrols, PSD involving securing American and foreign diplomats around the country. Serving in Iraq was the greatest and worst experiences of my life. I have seen the best and worst humans can do to each other. I have witnessed the heroism and sacrifice of my BRAVE fellow soldiers. I know the cost of freedom. I will never forget the price my countrymen have paid so that every American can be free. In honor of all Americans who have served and the American people I love. I SALUTE YOU!